Desertmartin hold out to record sweet victory over Brantwood

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Published:12:56Wednesday 16 March 2016

Desertmartin were playing Brantwood again and, after the previous week’s defeat, they were full of hope that they could turn this around at home.

With almost a full squad it was going to take 100 per cent effort from everyone.

Desertmartin and Killymoon Rangers tussle for the ball during Saturday's league clash at Desertmartin.INMM0916-336

Manager Chris had relived the previous week’s game to see where this week’s match would be different.

The Deserts were the stronger side in the first 20 minutes and had a number of chances but a mixture of bad luck and bad judgement meant that they could not get on the score sheet in the first 45 minutes.

After the team talk, it was Brantwood who came out the stronger in the second half but the Deserts had the fight in them and wanted to regain control of this game.

Nelson had a number of great saves to make and with Philip Caulfield on top form in defence it was not going to be Brantwood’s day.

With the clock ticking it was time for both teams to bring on fresh legs to push things a step further and it was 80th minute that Desertmartin were awarded a penalty. Andy Kelso kept a cool head and just seemed to walk up to the ball and take the keeper of guard and deliver the ball into the corner of the net.

Brantwood were not best pleased and stepped up the pace of the game.It looked as if this might just be a very long 10 minutes at the end of the game.

Play went from one end of the pitch to the other and when the referee gave the Desertmartin another penalty this time it was Dobson’s turn to step up. Howevever, the Brantwood goalkeeper had his eye on the ball and saved well.

Another great attempt from John Henry just saw the Deserts hold onto their one goal lead.

This was a rewarding win and who said revenge is not sweet? In the next leg of the cup the Deserts will take on Ballynure OB date yet to be set.

This Saturday they take on the same opposition in a league match at Dromore Park at 2pm while Desertmartin Swifts take on Carnmoney.